It can't. That's not what patents are for. The same could happen for an unpatented modified plant. We have the USDA for these things. https://www.aphis.usda.go

It can't. That's not what patents are for. The same could happen for an unpatented modified plant. We have the USDA for these things. https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/program-update/aphis-issues-regulatory-status-review-response-light-bio-petunia https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/program-update/aphis-issues-... > APHIS found this modified petunia is unlikely to pose an increased plant pest risk compared to other cultivated petunia. As a result, it is not subject to regulation under 7 CFR part 340. From a plant pest risk perspective, this petunia may be safely grown and bred in the United States.